Test driver Soucek to leave Virgin

Test driver Andy Soucek has confirmed that he is to leave the Virgin Racing team due to the lack of opportunities to sample the VR-01.

Soucek joined the team earlier this year after Alvaro Parente was forced to give up his position due to sponsorship issues.

The F2 champion has so far held the role of test and reserve alongside Luiz Razia but will now leave his role due to the lack of opportunities to actually drive the car.

“Andy and the team have mutually agreed to conclude his contractual obligations to Virgin Racing so that Andy can concentrate on racing in other categories,” a statement from Soucek's management read. “This season Andy attended 10 of the races ready to substitute for either race driver in the event of an injury or illness and during that time he has regularly been a part of, and contributed to, the team's trackside engineering meetings.

“The current F1 testing agreement means there are few opportunities for test drivers to gain track time in the car. Andy is ambitious, and needs to maintain his racing mileage. Therefore he has decided to concentrate on pursuing racing opportunities in other series.

“Andy has enjoyed his time with Virgin Racing, and both sides have parted on good terms, wishing each other well for the future.”

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Its a sad state of affairs There is nothing in F1 and Im not talking lack of character.....I believe he will do better else where but unfortunately the ongoing world recession means sponsors are not exactly knocking on doors. Having said this I wish Andy well